Survivors of the recent attacks in Plateau State have shared their harrowing experiences following the brutal incidents that occurred on March 28 and April 2 in the Bokkos Local Government Area. Gunmen targeted several communities, including Ruwi, Mangor, Daffo, Manguna, Hurti, and Tadai, resulting in significant loss of life and property. Although official casualty figures have not been released, local residents report that at least 52 people were killed, with many others injured or missing.
Survivor Accounts
Survivors described the attacks as sudden and devastating. Tariza Jakob from Hurti village recounted how gunmen on motorcycles arrived and began shooting indiscriminately, forcing families to flee for their lives. Many homes were burned, and the community is now calling for government assistance and justice against the attackers.
Another survivor, Michael Yuhana, noted that the violence erupted on a Wednesday evening, leading to chaos as people attempted to escape. By the time security forces arrived, many had already been killed or injured. Banghas Atanguk from Manguna also shared his experience, expressing uncertainty about the future after losing a family member in the attacks.
Government Response
President Bola Tinubu condemned the attacks, labeling them as unacceptable and promising that the perpetrators would be hunted down and punished. He has directed the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to work with Plateau State authorities to provide relief to affected communities. The National Security Adviser, Malam Nuhu Ribadu, visited the area to express condolences and assured that those responsible would face justice, although he cautioned that some casualty figures might be exaggerated.
Calls for Action
The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has urged the federal government to take immediate action to stop the violence in Plateau State. They emphasized the need for a state of security emergency in vulnerable areas and called for better intelligence gathering and community involvement in security efforts. The Northern States Governors’ Forum also condemned the attacks, describing them as senseless and a threat to regional stability, while urging for increased security measures.
Conclusion
The recent violence in Plateau State has left communities devastated and in need of urgent support. The government and various organizations are being called upon to take decisive action to restore peace and security in the region.
